HARRISBURG, March 28, 2008 – State Sen. J. Barry Stout today reminded constituents that taxpayers seeking assistance with their Pennsylvania state taxes and/or property tax/rent rebate forms can get help on April 1 at his district office in Eighty Four.
Stout said a Department of Revenue official would be on hand to help prepare individuals’ state taxes and Property Tax/Rent Rebate applications on Tuesday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. No appointments will be accepted at the request of the Department.
“The tax deadline is fast approaching and this is the last opportunity local taxpayers will have to get quality assistance in completing their paperwork,” Stout said. “We will also help seniors fill out applications for the expanded Property Tax/Rent Rebate program to ensure none of our local senior citizens are missing out on their deserved rebates.”
Two years ago, Stout voted for the law that expanded the rebate program by increasing the income limit from $15,000 to $35,000 for homeowners and raising the maximum rebate for both homeowners and renters from $500 to $650. Applicants can exclude, as income, one-half of Social Security, Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Railroad Retirement Tier 1 and Black Lung benefits.
In addition to the Revenue Department expert, an IRS trained volunteer from Community Action Southwest will be available to assist individuals in filing for the federal stimulus payments or for individuals who need the earned income tax credits. Individuals must file a federal return this year to receive the stimulus payment.
Stout reminded taxpayers that even if you have not been required to file a federal tax return but received taxable income in excess of $33 during 2007—even if no tax is due—taxpayers are still required to file a PA tax return. The requirements for filing a state return are different than federal requirements. The filing deadline for both the state and federal tax returns is April 15, 2008 and the Property Tax/Rent Rebate is June 30, 2008.
Stout’s Eighty Four district office is located at: 1024 Route 519, Suite 400, Eighty Four. Phone (724) 225-5400. Feel free to call with questions. Ample parking is available at Stout’s district office.
While many forms are available at the district office, Stout urged people to bring their own forms with them along with any appropriate income and property tax or rent documentation. To download a Property Tax/Rent Rebate form or for more information on the program, visit: http://www.revenue.state.pa.us/ptrr/site/default.asp.
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